World's smallest machined hole

Oct. 12, 2006
Just how small is the smallest machined hole?

Makino, of Japan, machined a hole with a 0.00044-in. diameter on its Edge2 Sinker EDM.

A Japanese company says its 0.00044 in. (diameter). Machine-tool maker Makino machined a communications/fiberoptic part on its Edge2 Sinker EDM using a 0.00024-in.-diameter silver-tungsten electrode. A total of eight holes were machined in 2 min and 40 sec. It took 20 sec to machine each hole, with 40% wear to the single electrode. Hole diameters were held to ±0.00005 in. with positioning pitch location accuracy of ±0.0005 in. Positioning pitch between holes was 0.004 in., and the thickness at the hole location was 0.0010 in. The company says its machine produces consistent hole size and location to within 0.002-mm repeatability.

Sponsored Recommendations

NEW Low Profile, Ultra Compact Power Supplies

March 13, 2024
Learn more HERE about Altech's Power supplies!

Altech's Liquid Tight Strain Relifs Catalog

March 13, 2024
With experienced Product Engineers and Customer Service personnel, Altech provides solutions to your most pressing application challenges. All with one thought in mind - to ensure...

Industrial Straight-Through Cable Gland

March 13, 2024
Learn more about Altech's cable glands and all they have to offer for your needs!

All-In-One DC-UPS Power Solutions

March 13, 2024
Introducing the All-In-One DC-UPS, a versatile solution combining multiple functionalities in a single device. Serving as a power supply, battery charger, battery care module,...

Voice your opinion!

To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of Machine Design, create an account today!